1) Current and Circuit symbols:

1. Basics of Current and Charge Flow

  • Current: Flow of electrical charge (electrons).

  • Condition: Only flows in a closed circuit with potential difference (p.d.).

  • Unit of Current: Ampere (A).


2. Potential Difference and Resistance

  • Potential Difference (Voltage): Drives the charge around the circuit.

    • Unit: Volt (V).

  • Resistance: Opposes the flow of current.

    • Unit: Ohm (Ω).


3. Circuit Behaviour

  • In a single, closed loop, the current is the same throughout.

  • Formula: Q=I×tQ=I×t

    • Q = Charge (Coulombs, C)

    • I = Current (A)

    • t = Time (seconds, s)


4. Current and Resistance Relationship

  • Higher Resistance = Lower Current (for a fixed p.d.).

  • Example Calculation:

    • If a current of 2 A flows for 2.5 hours, charge Q=2×(2.5×3600)=18000Q=2×(2.5×3600)=18000 C.


Circuit Symbols:

Symbol

Symbol Component:

Battery

Power source

Switch (Open)

Controls circuit

Switch (Closed)

Completes circuit

Filament Lamp

Produces light

LED

Diode emitting light

Fuse

Safety device

Resistor

Opposes current

Variable Resistor

Adjusts resistance

Ammeter

Measures current

Voltmeter

Measures voltage

Diode

Allows one-way current

Thermistor

Temp.-dependent resistor

LDR

Light-dependent resistor


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